Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky to ‘pay £150m for David Gold’s West Ham shares and become majority shareholder’
CZECH billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is keen to pay £150million for late West Ham co-owner David Gold’s shares and become the majority shareholder, according to reports.
Kretinsky 47, joined the board back in 2021 having paid between £180m-200m for a 27 per cent stake.
However, a lot has changed since the Czech’s arrival in East London.
Despite a summer transfer splurge to the tune of £160m, the Hammers are fighting relegation.
And late co-owner, Gold, sadly passed away in January.
Gold owned a 25 per cent share in the East London club alongside business partner David Sullivan – who remains on the board at the London Stadium.
The pair bought into the club in 2010.
According to Football Insider, billionaire Kretinsky wants to buy Gold’s 25 per cent, which would make him the majority shareholder at West Ham.
A £150m+ deal for Gold’s 25 per cent would take Kretinsky’s stake to 52 per cent, surpassing Sullivan’s 38.8 per cent.
Kretinsky – who owns shares in Royal Mail – has previously stated that the strong Hammers fanbase was one of the driving factors in him investing.
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK
He said in 2021: “The fan base is one of the reasons why I wanted to become part of the club.
“West Ham supporters are among the most passionate and knowledgeable about their club and their football anywhere.
“I understand that the move to London Stadium was initially difficult for some, but the atmosphere is incredible.
“Gradual evolution is, in my opinion, the most healthy way to build a strong club on a firm basis and with the right attitudes and culture.”
Whether West Ham’s uncertainty in the Premier League would play a role in Kretinsky hoovering up the shares is yet to be seen.
The Hammers are sat two points above bottom after 25 games played.
They were humiliated by Brighton on Saturday, running out 4-0 losers.
Moyes’ men turned in a lacklustre, low-energy performance, leading to chants of: “You’re getting sacked in the morning.”
However, according to various reports, despite West Ham’s shocking form, Moyes has the backing of the ownership.